# Trader Joe's Ultra Hydrating Gel Moisturizer for oily skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for oily skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: Excellent.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/trader-joe-s/ultra-hydrating-gel-moisturizer/for/oily-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Canada.

Brand: [Trader Joe's](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/trader-joe-s)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/best/moisturizers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with oily skin: shine, enlarged pores, blackheads, and blemishes. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for oily skin; other moisturizers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate suitability for your oily skin due to the humectant action of Glycerin and Sodium Hyaluronate, which provide hydration without exacerbating oiliness.
- While it offers general skincare benefits and hydration, it lacks stronger seboregulating ingredients to directly address concerns about oily shine.
- The product is safe for your oily skin, with no risks of irritation from harsh ingredients and the inclusion of soothing agents like Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/trader-joe-s/ultra-hydrating-gel-moisturizer/for/oily-skin): Average (this page)
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/trader-joe-s/ultra-hydrating-gel-moisturizer/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/trader-joe-s/ultra-hydrating-gel-moisturizer/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/trader-joe-s/ultra-hydrating-gel-moisturizer/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/trader-joe-s/ultra-hydrating-gel-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/trader-joe-s/ultra-hydrating-gel-moisturizer/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/trader-joe-s/ultra-hydrating-gel-moisturizer/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/trader-joe-s/ultra-hydrating-gel-moisturizer/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/trader-joe-s/ultra-hydrating-gel-moisturizer/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycerin, Squalane

## What the research says

- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- A cream combining propolis, tea tree oil, and Aloe vera reduced erythema scars, acne severity index, and total lesion count better than erythromycin cream in sixty patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris compared to placebo. ([Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/))
- Topical aloe vera gel significantly accelerated split-thickness skin graft donor-site healing compared to placebo in 12 patients, but showed no significant difference in pain relief. ([Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29649056/))
- Topical application of Aloe vera cream reduced postoperative pain at rest and during defecation, accelerated wound healing at two weeks, and decreased analgesic requirements in patients after open hemorrhoidectomy compared to placebo. ([Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20569031/))
- Formulations containing 0.10%, 0.25%, and 0.50% freeze-dried Aloe vera extract increased stratum corneum water content compared with the vehicle in 20 female subjects, while transepidermal water loss was not modified. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17026654/))
- Topical green tea extract significantly improved clinical symptoms, tear breakup times, and meibomian gland health compared to standard treatment in patients with dry eye and Meibomian Gland Dysfunction. ([Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28384900/))
- Topical low-dose green tea extract reduces UVB-induced p53 expression and apoptosis in human skin keratinocytes compared to placebo. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18631247/))
- An anti-acne hydrogel containing Aloe barbadensis, Garcinia mangostana, and Camellia sinensis extracts showed superior antiacne and antiblotch activities compared to 1% clindamycin gel in sixty subjects with mild-moderate acne. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31239743/))
- Topical application of 0.1% hyaluronic acid formulations of different molecular weights led to significant improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, with low-molecular-weight formulations also significantly reducing wrinkle depth in seventy-six female subjects compared to a vehicle control. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/))
- Topical application of hyaluronic acid in conjunction with free gingival graft significantly reduced donor site postoperative pain until day 7 compared to normal saline, with no significant differences in graft dimensions or patient satisfaction. ([Clinical Oral Investigations, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34623507/))
- Treatment with a hyaluronic acid-containing mouth rinse or topical gel led to significant lesion reduction, pain relief, and normalization of lesion color in adult patients with minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis, with the gel formulation showing an earlier healing onset at 3 days. ([BMC Oral Health, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31311529/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))
- Niacinamide/glycerin body moisturizers provided better rapid and prolonged improvement of cosmetic xerosis through functional improvement of stratum corneum barrier function compared to no treatment and conventional moisturizers in female subjects. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22206073/))
- Squalane at 0.005-0.015% counteracts UVA-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and collagen metabolism inhibition while stimulating fibroblast migration in human dermal fibroblasts. ([Molecules, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40363772/))
- Plant-derived squalane protected human dermal fibroblasts against UVA-induced damage by counteracting ROS formation, suppressing apoptosis-related proteins p53, caspase-3, caspase-9, and PARP, and restoring the pro-survival p-Akt/mTOR pathway. ([Antioxidants, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40722956/))

## What reviewers say

This lightweight gel-cream moisturizer is frequently praised by users with oily and normal skin for its quick absorption and cooling effect. Users with dry skin or compromised barriers often report it provides insufficient hydration, especially in winter, and may cause stinging or burning sensations.

- Liked: Affordable value (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Lightweight & non-greasy (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Clinique dupe (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Insufficient hydration (often mentioned)
- Liked: Soothing & cooling (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Burning sensation (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Sticky residue (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your AM or PM routine every day to keep your face fresh.
- Apply this moisturizer after cleansing and toning, but right before your SPF in the morning.
- Gently press a small amount into your skin and let it absorb fully.
- Apply on clean, slightly dry skin to help control that oily shine.
- Avoid the eye area and do a quick patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Trader Joe's Ultra Hydrating Gel Moisturizer work for oily skin?

Trader Joe's Ultra Hydrating Gel Moisturizer works moderately well for oily skin by providing hydration without adding extra oil. It is safe and soothing, but it lacks ingredients to directly control oily shine. An oily skin moisturizer needs lightweight hydrating agents, peptides, and ingredients that control oil and support the skin barrier without clogging pores.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Which ingredients make this moisturizer a good fit for oily skin?

Glycerin and Sodium Hyaluronate make this moisturizer a good fit for oily skin by providing light hydration without adding extra oiliness, while Aloe Baraddensis Leaf Juice helps soothe the skin. To work even better for oily skin, a product of this type needs stronger ingredients to control shine, along with a lightweight texture, ingredients that support the skin barrier, and no heavy oils.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Aloe Vera Leaf Juice do for oily skin?

Aloe vera leaf juice helps hydrate oily skin by increasing water content in the outer skin layer without adding heavy oils or modifying water loss. It is also often combined with treatments to help calm redness and reduce acne breakouts.
Sources: [Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/), [Skin Research and Technology, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17026654/)

### What does Green Tea Extract do for oily skin?

Green tea extract helps oily skin by significantly lowering oil production when applied regularly over several weeks. It also calms inflammation and reduces breakouts, making it a great addition to a routine for managing greasy skin.
Sources: [Bosnian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20846135/), [Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29394016/)

### Where does it go in a skincare routine for oily skin?

This moisturizer goes as the last step before sunscreen in the morning and as the final step in the evening routine. It provides hydration without feeling heavy, though oily skin often benefits most from a moisturizer that also includes oil-controlling ingredients like niacinamide.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31461548/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Can I use this moisturizer with retinol, and in what order?

You can use this moisturizer with retinol, applying it after your retinol treatment to help soothe your skin and keep it comfortable. A product for oily skin used with strong treatments like retinol works best when it also includes ingredients that help balance oil and shine.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/)

### How often should I use it?

You can use this moisturizer daily in your morning and evening routines to keep your skin hydrated without feeling greasy. Regular daily application helps improve moisture levels and supports overall skin comfort.
Sources: [Health Science Reports, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34141902/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Can this moisturizer clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for oily skin?

Trader Joe's Ultra Hydrating Gel Moisturizer is unlikely to cause breakouts or clog pores on oily skin because it uses lightweight hydrating ingredients that keep skin soft without adding heavy oils. However, since it is only an average fit for oily skin, a moisturizer of this type needs added ingredients that help control excess shine and balance oil production.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Can I use it around the eyes or on my body?

This moisturizer is generally safe to use on the body and around the eyes, though the skin there is much thinner and more delicate than facial skin. Because it contains soothing ingredients like Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice and hydrating agents like Sodium Hyaluronate, it is unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/)

### Is this moisturizer fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Cetearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/drunk-elephant/protini-polypeptide-cream/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — CA$95.99 at Amazon
- [COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cosrx/advanced-snail-96-mucin-power-essence/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — CA$24.99 at Amazon
- [The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-ha/for/oily-skin) — High fit — CA$16.20 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — CA$20.96 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — CA$37.60 at Amazon
- SPF: [La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 60](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/la-roche-posay/anthelios-clear-skin-dry-touch-sunscreen-spf-60/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — CA$35.95 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in Canada has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Saccharide Isomerate, Propanediol, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Vp Copolymer, Phenoxyethanol, Polyamide-5, Dimethicone, Hydroxyacetophenone, Polysilicone-11, Squalane, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Laureth-12, Cetearyl Olivate, Glyceryl Stearate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sorbitan Olivate, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil Sunflower Seed Oil, Cetearyl Alcohol, Lactobacillus Ferment, Tocopherol, Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Silybum Marianum Milk Extract, Betula Alba Leaf Extract, Beta-Sitosterol, Panthenol, Squalene, Coconut Fruit Extract, Citric Acid, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Sodium Citrate
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/trader-joe-s/ultra-hydrating-gel-moisturizer/for/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/trader-joe-s/ultra-hydrating-gel-moisturizer/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/trader-joe-s/ultra-hydrating-gel-moisturizer/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/trader-joe-s/ultra-hydrating-gel-moisturizer/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/trader-joe-s/ultra-hydrating-gel-moisturizer/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/trader-joe-s/ultra-hydrating-gel-moisturizer/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/trader-joe-s/ultra-hydrating-gel-moisturizer/for/oily-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/trader-joe-s/ultra-hydrating-gel-moisturizer/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/trader-joe-s/ultra-hydrating-gel-moisturizer/for/oily-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/trader-joe-s/ultra-hydrating-gel-moisturizer/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/trader-joe-s/ultra-hydrating-gel-moisturizer/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/trader-joe-s/ultra-hydrating-gel-moisturizer/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/trader-joe-s/ultra-hydrating-gel-moisturizer/for/oily-skin